PLay types

Play Types The development of the Hellenides nappes created potential hydrocarbon traps in the external zones in the form of sub-thrust traps, a play which is proven to the north in the Albanian part of the Ionian zone (e.g. Finiq Krane, Delvina, Ballsh Hekal). Strata upturned adjacent to salt diapirs, developed as a result of halokinesis, commonly form traps. This trapping mechanism, frequently encountered along the passive margins of West Africa and South America, is observed in the Central Ionian region (see image above). Stratigraphic traps are common in the Neogene clastics of the Albanian Ionian zone, where molassic deposits unconformably overlie Oligocene flysch and carbonates (Patos-Marinza and Kucova). They are equally important in the Northern and Central Ionian regions. Further west, within the Paxi zone and on the Apulian Platform, the Italian analogs come into play, with karstic reservoirs (e.g. Rospo Mare), carbonate buildups (e.g. Giove) and shelf edge deposits (e.g. Falco), all proven plays. The Southern Ionian and South of Crete regions are vast unexplored territories where several interesting features have been imaged for the first time. Amongst them are sub-Messinian anticlines and large anticlines within the Miocene sediments. There are three main play types in this area: the fold-and-thrust belt; anticlines related to strike-slip movements together with fault blocks related to normal fault activity; and the Mediterranean Ridge backthrust play. Identified hydrocarbon indicators include mud volcanoes and bottom simulating reflectors, the latter indicating the presence of gas hydrates.